Wednesday, 20 April 2011

Work bikes - The bikes of West Dean Gardens

I was on a painting course at the weekend at West Dean College and Gardens. On Sunday we were taken to the walled garden, and green houses where they propagate the plants that go out into the gardens. I saw the baskets first and they are fabulous. The gardeners use them to transports plants to the flower beds. These are the largest bike baskets I have seen. I know historically there were more working bikes but I wonder how many are still around.

Note the small front wheel under the basket which seems to be a similar system to the Brompton which can also carry a large load on the front in a the pannier.

Now if we could just get van drivers to move over to work bikes like these in London again. Bliss.

There is something about wicker baskets that always puts a smile on my face. Indeed, the discovery of baskets,or off-loading weight from my back and shoulders but to my steel steed, was a mini revelation: no more aches and pains, hills a sinch, and a more relaxed and enjoyable journey.

I am lusting after a workbike, although alas cannot justify one, my Brompton and basket suits my needs, and there is a neglected car lest I need to transport any more. My loading requirements seldom exceed more than 2 bags of shopping.

Although, if a Pashley Pronto, Courier, or Mailstar ever wind up at a descent price on eBay however, then I may have to reconsider.